A Multimedia Arts student created a buzz in social media because of his captivating artworks that reimagined Filipino street vendors as superheroes.
Dubbed as the “Kalsada Heroes” or the “Avendors”, the digital art series illustrated by 19-year-old Eman Jacob San Andres has received more than a hundred thousand shares, likes, and comments from netizens since it became viral on June 30, 2021. It was featured in different local media news sites, such as GMA News, ABS-CBN News, News5, Philippine Daily Inquirer, and Esquire.
In an interview with FEU Tech’s Director of Multimedia Arts, Abigail Alix, Eman shared, “To be honest, it’s overwhelming. I don’t feel pressured, but I am very happy that many have shown appreciation to my works and some were even grateful that I was able to give a spotlight to these street vendors. The whole thing really makes my heart flutter. I didn’t expect any of this.”
Among the street vendors featured in his series were those who sold taho, bananacue, sorbetes, kwek-kwek, buko juice, ihaw, sapin-sapin, balut, suman, and siomai. These quickly became a hit on social media because of the uniqueness of each artwork.
When asked about the inspiration for his drawings, Eman shared it was all thanks to Patrick Ganas, a fellow artist who designs Filipino-related characters.
“So when I was scrolling through my Instagram feed, I saw this series of artworks created by Mr. Patrick Ganas. He has a series featuring Filipino vendors such as taho vendors, sorbetero, and those who sell merienda,” Eman shared.
He also mentioned how dynamic Patricks’ drawings were, “That’s when I had an idea to put a twist into the concept, to make them superheroes” --- something that sparked a conversation on social relevance.
“It was a genius concept because apart from the importance and appreciation for these kinds of people, we are able to give social relevance and recognition to them as well when it comes to showcasing their professions in the society,” he said.
Meanwhile, during their interview, Ms. Abigail was quick to recognize and applaud Eman for a job well done. She even couldn’t hide her pride and happiness for the young iTamaraw.
LOOK: Some sample illustrations from Eman San Andres’ “Kalsada Heroes” digital art series
“What’s really amazing about these ‘Kalsada Heroes’ is that you were able to display our local culture. The Filipino identity is really evident in your artworks but the style you used is somewhat similar to Disney characters,” she said. “The quality of your artworks can really pass Disney’s standards.”
Similar comments were made by netizens who hoped for a Part 2 of the digital art series as well as for an animated film featuring the Kalsada Heroes.
“This is also good for doing an animated series on Netflix, next to Trese! Filipino concept with a twist!” a netizen on Facebook exclaimed.
Currently, Eman posts his latest works on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube under his pseudonym “Artenico.jpg”.
On pursuing Multimedia Arts
Believe it or not, Eman wanted to become a neurosurgeon when he was a kid. In fact, he took up the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) strand in Senior High so he can pursue a medicine-related course in college.
However, everything changed when he attended a career orientation in his previous alma mater. It was right there when he met Ms. Abil who facilitated the talk on Multimedia Arts.
“Some of my schoolmates said the Multimedia Arts career talk was quite interesting so I was tempted to join and attend the event. At that moment, I realized this is where I belong. This is my home program. It has been my home since I was a kid. This was my childhood dream,” Eman recalled.
In the same interview, Eman told Ms. Abi, “So, that’s where I met you, Ma’am. You were the speaker who introduced the program to us --- with all the recent works of your students, the animations, and all. I was really fascinated with all those.”
Ms. Abigail, on the other hand, was surprised to know that they had met before. She was also happy to find out that her talk inspired and motivated Eman to pursue a degree in Multimedia Arts.
LOOK: More digital artworks of Eman San Andres are posted in his art page, Artenico.jpg.
When asked about his parents’ thoughts about this decision, Eman gladly responded that his mom and dad supported him to the fullest.
“Actually, when I told them I wanted to study Multimedia Arts, they never doubted me. They told me to do what makes me happy and passionate,” he said. “That’s why I thank my parents so much for not making me feel pressured to do something I really want. It’s a big thing for me as an artist and as an individual.”
Ms. Abigail then re-assures Eman that he will have a fun college experience at FEU Tech, believing that with such creativity and talent, the promising iTamaraw can really go a long way with tons of potential achievements waiting for him in the future.
Bachelor of Multimedia Arts is a 2-in-1 program that enables students to develop their knowledge and skills in communicating effectively, critically, and creatively across a range of new media technologies and forms.
With a specialization in Animation and Digital Film, students are introduced to the fundamentals of 2D Design and Animation, 3D Animation, Digital Film Production, Design and Production Process, Video Production, and Visual Effects.
Click here for more information.